Prohibited & Restricted Imports
Last published date:
Please see UAE official websites for authoritative, up-to-date information:
https://u.ae/en/information-and-services/finance-and-investment/clearing-the-customs-and-paying-customs-duty
Certain goods cannot be imported, exported, transited, or require permits from the competent authority. The restrictions and prohibitions of goods are determined in accordance with GCC Customs Tariff Codes. The classified goods under those customs tariff codes will require a permit while submitting the online Customs Declarations. The UAE has a stringent policy in dealing with the import of banned items.
Relevant authorities and the goods categories they oversee are listed below (Dubai customs):
| Authorities | Goods Categories |
| Ministry of Climate Change & Environment | Live animals, plants, fertilizers and insecticides |
| Ministry of Defense / Armed Forces / Ministry of Interior | Arms, ammunitions, explosives, and fireworks |
| Ministry of Health & Prevention | Pharmaceutical products and Medical/ Surgical instruments and machines |
| National Media Council | Print materials, publications, and media products |
| Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation | Nuclear energy-related products |
| Emirates Authority for Standardization and Metrology | New tires |
| Telecommunications Regulatory Authority | Transmitters and radio equipment |
| Dubai Police | Alcoholic beverages |
| Dubai Municipality | Foodstuffs, personal care and cosmetic products |
| UAE Kimberley Process office | Rough diamonds |